The Dragon Guardian (Lochguard Highland Dragons 2)
Holly raised her brows. “Oh, aye? So I have no say in the matter?”
Fergus was quick to answer. “Of course you do, although Fraser is going to become overly protective as you progress. You mated a dragonman. You knew that would happen.”
Holly sighed. “I know. But just promise me you’ll keep it from Lorna for now.”
Absently stroking Gina’s hair, he answered, “I will. You helped my mate through her delivery. I’m deeply in your debt for that.”
Holly waved a hand in dismissal. “It’s my job. And the easiness of the birth makes me think there’s a reason behind it. Once everything settles, will you allow me to ask you some questions and draw some blood, Gina? If I can make it easier for humans birthing dragon-shifter children in the future, it will save a lot of heartache.”
Gina nodded. “Of course. Although I highly doubt I have some super-secret ingredient in my blood. Sometimes humans give birth to dragon-shifter babies without any complications.”
“Sometimes, but it’s rare.” Holly gently touched wee Jamie’s head. “Right, then I need to go. Arabella’s missing Finn and trying not to admit it.”
In deep talks with the DDA, Finn couldn’t risk being out of range while he traveled to Lochguard. There was also worry that Finn could become a target if he traveled back too quickly. Grant and the other Protectors were still searching the area for any lingering enemies.
Fergus motioned toward the door with his head. “Then help her.”
Gina spoke up again. “Tell her to come visit. I could use the company when Fergus has to help Fraser, Grant and Faye.”
“I told you I can stay here another day.”
Gina raised her brows. “I’ll be fine. The clan needs your help more than I. You can only find out so much from the control room.”
Holly gathered her supplies and placed them in her medical kit. “Let’s see if I can get Arabella here first. Her behavior...worries me.”
Fergus chimed in. “Finn will be home soon. If anyone can get it out of her, it’s my cousin.”
“Aye, I hope so,” Holly said. “I think she’s depressed about the triplets. Maybe if I can get Melanie Hall-MacLeod on the phone, she can help. From all accounts, Mel has a way with Arabella.”
Fergus replied, “Well, Dr. Sid is here. You could always have her try to talk to Arabella.”
“That might work.” Holly picked up her bag. “I have my mobile phone on. Call if there’s an emergency.”
Left alone, Fergus kissed Gina’s cheek. He watched their son nurse a second before he placed his hand over hers. “I wish I could stay here forever.”
Gina snuggled against him. “Me, too. But you have that conference call. And I have an idea I want you to run past Jane Hartley.”
“The former reporter? Why?”
“Because we might be able to turn this disaster into something positive.”
“I thought you were supposed to be exhausted.”
The corner of Gina’s mouth ticked up. “I’m tired, but often my brain goes into overdrive when I’m really tired. When I was trying to take a nap before Jamie woke up, I had an idea.”
“Aye? I’m listening.”
“Well, in addition to marketing, I studied a lot about public relations. Much like when you want to invoke an emotion or a need to buy something when advertising, the same can work for a principal or law. After Stonefire was attacked, the public moved to support them. As a result of that and Melanie’s efforts, Stonefire has been granted special privileges. Dragonmen can petition for a special license to mate a human. Yet they’re the only clan allowed to do so.”
“They are, but I’m not sure I follow.”
“If I could’ve mated you, I would’ve garnered the protection of the DDA. The attack most likely wouldn’t have happened.”
Fergus frowned. “I don’t know about that. The traitors are determined to see Lochguard crumble.”
“But the DDA would’ve acted quicker. Or, at least listened to any grievances Lochguard had.”
Fergus grunted. “The DDA rarely helps unless they’re forced to do so.”